Goals
- Restore the exterior of this treasured historic structure, addressing structural deficiencies, finish deteriorations, and waterproofing problems that have accrued over time.
- Renovate the interior of the building to allow the Theatre and Dance Departments to better address the needs of students and academic initiatives.
Challenges
- Work within a structure that was originally built as a gymnasium and pool.
- Keep within a very limited construction budget.
- Schedule the project such that red slate, a difficult material to obtain, could be ordered with sufficient lead time.
- Build consensus with the Users and integrate the project with the institutional goals of the university.
Design Response
- Surveyed and analyzed the conditions of the exterior envelope.
- Collaborated with the entire team on historic precedent and conditions.
- Developed a hierarchy of repairs, isolating the most expensive and difficult crafts for cost, schedule, and benefit:
- Replacement of deteriorated limestone columns, capitals, and trim.
- Replacement of red slate roof.
- Repointing of masonry.
- Reflashing of eaves.
- Replacement of uniquely muntined windows.
- Replacement of wood trims.
- Redesigned the entrance spaces and administrative offices to improve circulation, visibility, and a sense of procession and architectural gravitas.
- Redesigned new classroom, studio, office, library, changing rooms, and rest rooms to provide a significantly more flexible, spacious, and effective environment for teaching and performing.
Contractor
Shawmut Design and Construction
Consultants
CBI Consultants, Wozny Barbar & Associates
